Hydro Power Vs. Solar Power: Which Is Better?

by Editor on October 10, 2013

Both water and solar power are better for the planet than burning fossil fuels or creating nuclear energy in order to bring electricity to commercial interests and private residences. Each one uses natural elements to power a home without creating pollution and waste. So no matter what you choose when it comes to alternative energy options for your home, you’re going to cut your carbon footprint in the process. But before you make your selection you need to compare your options in order to make an educated decision about which type of power is going to work best for your home. So here are just a few things you’ll want to consider before you install hydro or solar power equipment.

Your first consideration should be your natural environment since the climate in your area could have a very real impact on the type of system you choose. If, for example, you live in a warm, sunny region that gets very little rainfall, a solar array is bound to be more beneficial than water power. This is especially true if you also have limited access to rivers, lakes, or other large bodies of water. And if you arrange for additional power storage you can stockpile for times when it’s not so sunny. On the other hand, a climate that suffers frequent storms and lengthy winters in which the sun is hidden by cloud cover, paired with an abundance of natural water, could prompt you to opt for hydro power. For one thing, your solar panels might only see usage a few months out of the year and you may face extra maintenance cost due to the erosion and damage that winter storms can cause,

Of course, you might decide to go with both hydro power and solar energy as a way to ensure year-round electricity off the grid. But there are a couple of problems with this proposition. For one thing, finding a home in an area that features both abundant water and sunlight might not be as easy as you think. Generally you’re going to find more of one or the other. But even beyond that, you might face times when neither form of natural energy is available, in which case you’d end up paying to draw electrical power from the grid anyway.

Further, installing the equipment needed to harness these eco-friendly sources of energy is by no means cheap. The cost of installing enough solar panels to power the average home could be anywhere from about $25,000-$50,000, just for example, not to mention the cost of maintenance. Although you’ll certainly save some dough on your power bill by utilizing green energy options, the truth is that you’ll pay a pretty penny, at least up front, for the privilege of reducing your carbon debt. Still, contracting with a company like Icon solar power to get yourself hooked up to the juice from the sun will not only save you over time, but it will also help you to do right by the environment. And since you’re seriously considering alternative power sources for your home, that’s probably an important factor in your decision. Of course, cost is also a big consideration, so it’s in your best interest as a consumer to check out all of your options.